Economics in One Lesson

Closely analyze some of Hazlitt’s rhetorical strategies throughout Economics in One Lesson. What rhetorical strategies does he use in an attempt to engage the reader, make his arguments accessible to a general audience, and/or attempt to persuade?

Consider Hazlitt’s views on tariffs, and contrast his views with that of a rival economist. How are the two economists different or similar in their views? What are the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments?

Hazlitt argues that technological innovations never hurt workers in the long run, as more jobs will just be created elsewhere in the economy. What are some examples of technological innovations that support Hazlitt’s assertions? What examples challenge this assertion?

Research one of the major historical events of Hazlitt’s time, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal or the beginning of the Cold War. How does Economics in One Lesson reflect this historical context? How does it shape Hazlitt’s approach and/or his views?

Hazlitt opposes initiatives like minimum wage laws, arguing that they do not create greater wealth in the long run. Research the minimum wage laws in your state/country and compare the results against Hazlitt’s analysis. In what ways do your findings support or contradict his ideas?

At the core of Hazlitt’s economic views on inflation lies the belief that money is not directly a reflection of wealth. What are the strengths and weaknesses of this argument? What factors, if any, may Hazlitt have ignored or overlooked?

Hazlitt concedes that wartime economies sometimes function in ways that are very different from peacetime ones. How does Hazlitt explore wartime versus peacetime economics in Economics in One Lesson? How does this aspect of his analysis reflect some of his key themes and ideas?

Compare and contrast Hazlitt with another Classical economist, such as Friedrich Hayek or Ludwig von Mises. What common assumptions and ideas do the two economists share? In what ways, if any, do they differ?